The Vikings reportedly will table contract extension negotiations with star receiver Justin Jefferson for the foreseeable future after failing to reach an agreement prior to Week 1.
With Minnesota set to open the season against the visiting Buccaneers on Sunday, the franchise won’t revisit talks with Jefferson, 24, on a new deal until after the season, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Despite a “strong effort” from both sides, per Schefter, Jefferson, the reigning NFL Offensive Player of the Year, heads into his fourth pro season with only two years left on his current deal: a four-year, $13.12 million pact he inked as a rookie in 2020. The Vikings picked up his fifth-year option in April, meaning Jefferson is set to earn $19.7 million in the final year of his contract during the 2024 season.
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Based on Saturday’s update, Jefferson’s lack of an extension figures to become a key storyline in the coming months as he looks to build on his career year.
In 17 games in 2022, Jefferson, a first-time first-team All-Pro, recorded an NFL-best 128 receptions and 1,809 yards to go with eight touchdowns.
